Dawon Jung

Which ELC program(s) did you attend?

I attended the spring and fall Intensive English (ELPI) programs and a Summer Language and Culture program.

What made your ELC program special?

Before I started studying in ELPI, I used to be afraid of speaking English incorrectly, but now I’m not afraid of making mistakes. I have gained more confidence through this program.

What is the most memorable thing that happened to you as an ELC student?

I have many memorable experiences during this program. The most memorable one is that I made a lot of friends from different countries and went on a trip to Yellowknife with them. It was my first time travelling with foreign friends, and I was able to understand many things about them and get closer to them outside of class. Now, I have good friends from all over the world.

Do you have any favourite memories of Canadian culture?

Yes, the most memorable thing for me was on Remembrance Day. At that time, everyone wears a red flower on their chest to show respect. It's a beautiful tradition to honour those who gave their lives. I think it's a good way to help people remember and be thankful for those who have done so much for us.

How did learning with students from other cultures change how you see the world?

Learning with students from other cultures has made me more open-minded and curious about the world. I often talked about their traditional food with my classmates, and I was amazed by the variety of ingredients they use—ingredients I had never thought of before. It made me want to try new things and explore different cultures.

Did studying English with us open any new opportunities for you? What are you doing now?

Yes, studying English with you has definitely opened up new opportunities for me. It has helped me improve my communication skills and made me more confident in speaking English. Right now, I am looking for a job in Korea. I have already uploaded my CV online, and several companies have contacted me.